Today I decided to display my positions on many of the issues that frame the usual political discourse (both here and in conversation in general), as some of you have wondered where I stand, given that I am a Republican posting here. So, below the fold I will identify issues and give my positions on them. If I missed an issue, just ask and I will resond with my thoughts. And yes, I realize most of you could care less about my positions, but it is my diary after all.
The Iraq War - I fully supported/support the decision to go into Iraq and leberate that country from its hostile dictatorial regime. I, as many others did, believed Iraq had WMD and while I do not still believe they have them, I do want to know what happened to the ones they had. Obviously, mistakes were made during the war's aftermath, but I believe the end result (10 years out) will be a free Iraq and a feather in Bush's historical cap.
The Deficit - As a fiscal conservative, I find this concerning, however, I do not solely blame Bush for the current mess (he is responsible for some though). I firmly believe the government needs to have a zero base budget every 10 years (like the census) so that every program and expenditure can be fairly evaluated and the non performers cut (regardless of catchy name).
Tax Cuts - I believe these were necessary and have indeed jumpstarted the economy. Had my party been able to remember its roots (fiscal conservatism) the deficit might not be that bad of a problem.
Gay Marriage - I am against gay marriage, just as I am against polygamous marriage, and incestual marriage. I am not, however, against civil unions and benefits for gay couples.
Abortion - I could care less about this issue and am sick of it being brought up in political discourse by both sides. I also do not see any Supreme Court overturning Roe v Wade, it would be way too politically destabilizing.
Government Health Care - I am against the idea of social health care, as I do not believe it is an effecient, effective, or beneficial system for the majority of Americans. It would be way too costly to set up and would never be accepted by those who currently have health care benefits. I do agree that government should insure against catastrophic cases (kind of like FEMA but for health care).
Social Security - See previous diary. I am against the Bush plan, but would like to see some private accounts made available to those with lower income while still guaranteeing their current benefits. I also would not mind seeing governemnt be able to invest some SS money in other assets.
Global Warming - I believe that global warming is happening, but I do not believe that we are the sole or majority cause for it. I also do not believe we can reverse it with current technology or political efforts.
Environmental Protection - I am a moderate here, as a former subscriber to WorldWatch and reader of many of their publications, I do support reasonable levels of environmental protections, but I am also a realist and would like to see more cost-benefit analysis' be done before they are enacted.
Free Trade - I am a full supporter of free trade and I beleive that Free Trade has enabled the economy to flourish since it has been accepted worldwide (mostly). People always lose in free trade, but they are in the minority, the majority wins. This is backed by Krugman, whose text we used way back in the International Economics I took.
North Korea/Iran - Two very delicate situations. We really need China to step up and support us on N.Korea (and yes, strikes may be needed). In Iran's case, we really need those cheese eating surrender monkeys to step up and play hardball for once.
Gun Control - I am totally against gun control.
Any questions, fire away.